Ashes 2013-14: Geoffrey Boycott's verdict after day one of second Test

Geoffrey Boycott picks out England spinner Monty Panesar for particular praise
as Australia end the first day of the second Ashes Test 273 for 5

Two wickets for no runs in successive overs helped to keep England competitive on a fluctuating opening day of the second Ashes Test.

Australia doubtless envisaged a more commanding output than 273 for five, as England kept eking out a wicket just when they needed one most at the Adelaide Oval after Michael Clarke won the toss on a dry, drop-in pitch.

But after half-centuries from Chris Rogers (72), Shane Watson (51) and George Bailey (53), Clarke himself was still unbeaten at stumps two short of another 50 to ensure honours close to even.